MacBook Pro volume low? The real fix

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Macbook

The volume on a MacBook Pro is sometimes lower than usual. This can be attributed to certain issues with the system. The good news is that it’s something that can be solved. So, worry not. This article will guide you on how to fix this issue.

Solution 1: Resetting NVRAM / PRAM

Your Mac stores certain settings such as speaker volume, in a special memory area, even if it is turned off. A MacBook Pro can either be running on an intel-based processor or a PowerPC processor.

The memory on an Intel-based processor is known as NVRAM while one on a PowerPC processor is known as a PRAM.

Resetting the NVRAM/PRAM will help resolve the volume issue. You can use these steps to reset the memory:

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Locate the following keys on the keyboard: Command, Option, P, and R. You will need to hold these keys down simultaneously in step 4.
  3. Turn on the computer.
  4. Press and hold the Command + Option + P + R keys before the gray screen appears.
  5. Hold the keys down until the computer restarts and then until you hear the startup sound for the second time.
  6. Release the keys.
  7. Reconfigure the speaker settings.

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Solution 2: Boost volume

When the volume is low, you can boost it using an inbuilt hack.

  1. Press ‘F10’ to see whether your speakers are active. When the icon displays waves emanating outward, your speakers are active.
  2. Press ‘F12’ to increase the volume by one level. MacBook Pro has 16 levels.
  3. Hold down ‘F12’ until all levels are full.

Solution 3: Update the OS

macOS updates improve the stability, performance, and security of your MacBook Pro. If you’ve upgraded to macOS Mojave or later, follow these steps to keep it up to date:

  1. Launch the Apple menu and then click ‘System Preferences’.
  2. Click ‘Software Update’ to check for updates.
  3. If any updates are available, click the ‘Update Now’ button to install them.

If you’re using an earlier macOS, such as macOS High Sierra, Sierra, El Capitan, or earlier, follow these steps to keep it up to date:

  1. Open the App Store app.
  2. Click ‘Updates’ in the App Store toolbar.
  3. Use the ‘Update’ button to download and install any updates listed.

Solution 4: Check your sound settings

If you still can’t hear sound from the internal speakers after updating your computer’s software, check your sound settings. Follow these steps:

  1. Disconnect any external audio devices from your computer. Also disconnect any cables from the USB, Thunderbolt, or 3.5mm audio ports.
  2. Launch the Apple menu and then click ‘System Preferences’.
  3. Click ‘Sound’.
  4. Click the ‘Output’ tab, then select the ‘built-in speakers’.
  5. If the ‘Output’ volume slider is set low, move the slider to the right and test again.
  6. If the ‘Mute’ checkbox is selected, deselect it and test again.
  7. If you still don’t hear any sound, contact Apple Support.

Read Also: Fix this item is temporarily unavailable on my MacBook Pro?

Solution 5: Reset MacBook Pro

This should be your final resort. The reset solves any straining issue on the system. Follow these steps to perform a reset.

  1. Hold down the Command and R keys on the keyboard and turn on the Mac. Let go when the Apple logo pops up.
  2. Select your language and press ‘Continue’.
  3. Select ‘Disk Utility’and click ‘Continue’.
  4. Choose your startup disk and click ‘Erase’ and ‘Done’ when the process is complete.
  5. Connect to Wi-Fi.
  6. Choose ‘Reinstall macOS’ from the main menu and click ‘Continue’.
  7. Read the software license agreement and click ‘Agree’.
  8. Choose your boot disk and click ‘Install’.
  9. Wait for the first step of the installation to occur. It will take a while.
  10. The computer will restart after installation. You can now configure the sound settings for the MacBook Pro.

Conclusion

The MacBook pro volume low problem shouldn’t be an issue anymore when you follow the steps above. If you have any questions surrounding this topic, let us know in the comments below.